On August 28th at approximately 0410 hours, Hughesville Volunteers were alerted to the 10000 block of La Plata Road for the structure fire high life hazard. The location was a nursing home and rehabilitation center. Chief 2 and Engine 22 made the response.

First arriving units from La Plata VFD arrived on scene to find a two story commercial building with fire in the rear. Chief 2 arrived a short time later and was assigned the division “C” command. Moments after arriving, fire was showing from the roof and a 2nd alarm was requested. In addition to the second alarm, a mass casualty EMS assignment was also requested due to the evacuation of over 30 individuals needing evaluation.

Engine 22 arrived on the scene and was assigned to division 2 inside the building. The crew of Engine 22 assisted with removing patients from the affecting wing of the building, a search of the second floor where the fire was isolated and overhaul once the fire was extinguished.

Approximately 12 minutes after units first arrived, the fire was brought under control. Units continued to operate working on ventilation of the structure to prevent any other wings from becoming affected.

Units from Charles County, Prince George’s County, St. Mary’s County, Naval District Washington, Charles County Volunteer Fire Association, Charles County Department of Emergency Services, Charles County Sheriff’s Office, Maryland State Police and the La Plata Police Department work quickly and seamlessly to evacuate the residents and bring this incident under control.

In total 31 residents were evaluated and only one person required transport to a local hospital for non life threatening injuries.